Optical assemblies with managed connectivity

ABSTRACT

An adapter block assembly includes an adapter block, a circuit board arrangement, and a cover attached to the adapter block so that the circuit board arrangement is held to the adapter block by the cover. Contact assemblies can be disposed between the adapter block and the circuit board arrangement. The cover can be latched, heat staked, or otherwise secured to the adapter block. Each component of the adapter block assembly can include one or more parts (e.g., multiple adapter blocks, multiple circuit boards, and/or multiple cover pieces).

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of application Ser. No. 14/169,912,filed Jan. 31, 2014, which application claims the benefit of provisionalapplication Ser. No. 61/843,718, filed Jul. 8, 2013, and titled “OpticalAssemblies with Managed Connectivity;” and of provisional applicationSer. No. 61/761,034, filed Feb. 5, 2013, and titled “Optical Assemblieswith Managed Connectivity,” which applications are incorporated hereinby reference in their entirety.

BACKGROUND

In communications infrastructure installations, a variety ofcommunications devices can be used for switching, cross-connecting, andinterconnecting communications signal transmission paths in acommunications network. Some such communications devices are installedin one or more equipment racks to permit organized, high-densityinstallations to be achieved in limited space available for equipment.

Communications devices can be organized into communications networks,which typically include numerous logical communication links betweenvarious items of equipment. Often a single logical communication link isimplemented using several pieces of physical communication media. Forexample, a logical communication link between a computer and aninter-networking device such as a hub or router can be implemented asfollows. A first cable connects the computer to a jack mounted in awall. A second cable connects the wall-mounted jack to a port of a patchpanel, and a third cable connects the inter-networking device to anotherport of a patch panel. A “patch cord” cross connects the two together.In other words, a single logical communication link is often implementedusing several segments of physical communication media.

Network management systems (NMS) are typically aware of logicalcommunication links that exist in a communications network, buttypically do not have information about the specific physical layermedia (e.g., the communications devices, cables, couplers, etc.) thatare used to implement the logical communication links. Indeed, NMSsystems typically do not have the ability to display or otherwiseprovide information about how logical communication links areimplemented at the physical layer level.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure relates to communications connector assembliesand connector arrangements that provide physical layer managementcapabilities. In accordance with certain aspects, the disclosure relatesto fiber optic connector assemblies and connector arrangements.

In accordance with some aspects of the disclosure, an optical adapterblock assembly includes an adapter block, a circuit board arrangement,and a cover. The adapter block defines ports and apertures associatedwith the ports. Contact assemblies can be disposed in the apertures ofthe adapter block so that portions of each contact assembly extend intoan interior of the adapter block. The circuit board arrangement has afirst side including circuit board components and a second sideconfigured to seat on the adapter block. The second side also isconfigured to electrically connect to the contact assemblies disposed inthe apertures of the adapter block. The cover is configured to seat onthe first side of the circuit board arrangement. The cover is attachedto the adapter block so that the circuit board arrangement is held tothe adapter block by the cover.

In certain examples, the cover is latched to the adapter block. Incertain examples, the cover is heat staked to the adapter block.

In accordance with other aspects of the disclosure, an optical adapterblock assembly includes a first adapter block, a second adapter block,and a connecting member that couples to a first side of the firstadapter block and to a second side of the second adapter block to holdthe first and second adapter blocks together as a unit. The firstadapter block defines front ports at a front of the first adapter blockand a rear ports at a rear of the first adapter block. The top of thefirst adapter block defines an aperture for each port of the firstadapter block. The second adapter block defines front ports at a frontof the second adapter block and rear ports at a rear of the secondadapter block. The top of the second adapter block defines an aperturefor each port of the second adapter block.

In accordance with other aspects of the disclosure, an optical adapterblock assembly includes an adapter block, a circuit board arrangement,and a cover that is heat staked to the adapter block. The adapter blockdefines front and rear ports. The adapter block also defines aperturesat a top of the adapter block with each aperture being associated withone of the front ports or rear ports. The adapter block also includesheat stakes extending upwardly from the top of the adapter block. Thecircuit board arrangement defines openings through which the heat stakespass when the circuit board arrangement is disposed on the adapterblock. The cover includes a top plate from which wells extenddownwardly. The wells define through-holes and counter-bores throughwhich the heat stakes extend when the cover is mounted to the adapterblock. A tip of each heat stake is configured to be melted into thecounter-bore of the respective well to secure the cover plate and thecircuit board arrangement to the adapter block.

In certain examples, the heat stakes are positioned adjacent theapertures in the adapter block to hold the circuit board securely to theadapter block in the location of the apertures. Contact assemblies canbe mounted in the apertures. Positioning the heat stakes at theapertures inhibits movement of the circuit board away from the adapterat the apertures that may otherwise be caused by deflection of thecontact assemblies within the apertures.

A variety of additional inventive aspects will be set forth in thedescription that follows. The inventive aspects can relate to individualfeatures and to combinations of features. It is to be understood thatboth the forgoing general description and the following detaileddescription are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictiveof the broad inventive concepts upon which the embodiments disclosedherein are based.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute apart of the description, illustrate several aspects of the presentdisclosure. A brief description of the drawings is as follows:

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing two optical connectors withphysical layer storage inserted at an optical adapter having mediareading interfaces to access the physical layer storage of theconnectors;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an example optical connector havingphysical layer storage aligned with an example contact assembly suitablefor implementing a media reading interface;

FIG. 3 is a side elevational view of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the example optical connector of FIG. 2interacting with the contact assembly of FIG. 2;

FIG. 5 is a side elevational view of FIG. 4;

FIG. 6 is a front perspective view of a first example adapter blockassembly including adapter blocks, a joining member, a circuit board,and a cover;

FIG. 7 shows the components of the first adapter block assembly of FIG.6 exploded outwardly from each other;

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the first adapter block assembly ofFIG. 6;

FIG. 9 is a front perspective view of the first adapter block assemblyof FIG. 6 with the cover removed;

FIG. 10 is a side elevational view of the first adapter block assemblyof FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 is a front perspective view of an example adapter block suitablefor use with the first adapter block assembly of FIG. 6;

FIG. 12 is a top plan view of the adapter block of FIG. 11;

FIG. 13 is a bottom plan view of the adapter block of FIG. 11;

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of an example joining member suitable foruse with the first adapter block assembly of FIG. 6;

FIG. 15 is a bottom plan view of the joining member of FIG. 14;

FIG. 16 is a top plan view of the joining member of FIG. 14;

FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the joining member taken along the17-17 line of FIG. 16;

FIG. 18 is a bottom perspective view of contact assemblies mounted to anexample circuit board suitable for use with the first adapter blockassembly of FIG. 6;

FIG. 19 is a perspective view showing the adapter block assembly of FIG.6 exploded upwardly from an example tray;

FIG. 20 is a perspective view showing the adapter block assembly of FIG.6 mounted to the tray of FIG. 19;

FIG. 21 is a front perspective view of a second example adapter blockassembly including adapter blocks, a joining member, a circuit board,and multiple cover pieces;

FIG. 22 is a bottom perspective view of the adapter block assembly ofFIG. 21;

FIG. 23 shows the components of the first adapter block assembly of FIG.21 exploded outwardly from each other;

FIG. 24 is a front perspective view of an example adapter block suitablefor use with the first adapter block assembly of FIG. 21;

FIG. 25 is a side elevational view of the first adapter block assemblyof FIG. 21;

FIGS. 26-29 illustrate an example cover piece suitable for use with thefirst adapter block assembly of FIG. 21;

FIGS. 30-31 are perspective views of an example joining member suitablefor use with the first adapter block assembly of FIG. 21;

FIG. 32 is a top plan view of the joining member of FIG. 30;

FIG. 33 is a bottom plan view of the joining member of FIG. 30;

FIGS. 34-35 are perspective views of an intermediate cover piecesuitable for use with the first adapter block assembly of FIG. 21;

FIG. 36 is an exploded view of a third example adapter block assemblyincluding a cover heat staked to an adapter block to sandwich a circuitboard therebetween;

FIG. 37 is a cross-sectional view of the third example adapter blockassembly of FIG. 36 with the components assembled together;

FIG. 38 is a top perspective view of a fourth example adapter blockassembly including an adapter block, a circuit board, and a cover;

FIG. 39 shows the components of the fourth adapter block assembly ofFIG. 38 exploded outwardly from each other;

FIGS. 40-42 illustrate an example adapter block suitable for use in thefourth adapter block assembly of FIG. 38;

FIG. 43 is a bottom perspective view of contact assemblies mounted to acircuit board suitable for use in the fourth adapter block assembly ofFIG. 38; and

FIGS. 44-45 illustrate one example cover suitable for use in the fourthadapter block assembly of FIG. 38;

FIG. 46 illustrates an example tray arrangement including anotherexample tray to which any of the adapter block assemblies disclosedherein can be mounted;

FIG. 47 is a perspective view of another adapter block assembly;

FIG. 48 is a front view of the adapter block assembly of FIG. 47 withpart of a forward shroud being visible;

FIG. 49 is a bottom plan view of the adapter block assembly of FIG. 47;

FIG. 50 is a bottom perspective view of the adapter block assembly ofFIG. 47 with the circuit board and contact assemblies exploded away fromthe adapter blocks of the adapter block assembly;

FIGS. 51-55 illustrate steps when latching the cover pieces to theadapter block assembly of FIG. 47; and

FIG. 56 is a perspective view of an optical adapter block exploded awayfrom a joining member coupled to another optical adapter block.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference will now be made in detail to exemplary aspects of the presentdisclosure that are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Whereverpossible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout thedrawings to refer to the same or like parts.

In general, media segments connect equipment of the communicationsnetwork. Non-limiting examples of media segments include optical cables,electrical cables, and hybrid cables. This disclosure will focus onoptical media segments. The media segments may be terminated withoptical plug connectors, media converters, or other optical terminationcomponents.

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of one example connection system 100including an adapter block assembly (e.g., optical adapters, electricalsockets, wireless readers, etc.) 110 at which communications signalsfrom a first media segment (e.g., an optical fiber, an electricalconductor, a wireless transceiver, etc.) 122 pass to another mediasegment 132. In some implementations, the media segments 122, 132 areterminated by connector arrangements 120, 130, respectively. The exampleadapter block assembly 110 connects segments of optical communicationsmedia in an optical network. In other implementations, however, theadapter block assembly 110 can connect electrical segments, wirelesssegments, or some combination thereof.

The adapter block assembly 110 includes a fiber optic adapter definingat least one connection opening 111 having a first port end 112 and asecond port end 114. A sleeve (e.g., a split sleeve) 103 is arrangedwithin the connection opening 111 of the adapter 110 between the firstand second port ends 112, 114. Each port end 112, 114 is configured toreceive a connector arrangement 120. Each fiber connector arrangement120, 130 includes a ferrule 124, 134 through which optical signals fromthe optical fiber 122, 132, respectively, pass. The ferrules 124, 134are held and aligned by a sleeve 103 to allow optical signals to passbetween the ferrules 124, 134. The aligned ferrules 124, 134 of theconnector arrangements 120, 130 create an optical path along which thecommunication signals may be carried.

In accordance with aspects of the disclosure, the communications networkis coupled to or incorporates a data management system that providesphysical layer information (PLI) functionality as well as physical layermanagement (PLM) functionality. As the term is used herein, “PLIfunctionality” refers to the ability of a physical component or systemto identify or otherwise associate physical layer information with someor all of the physical components used to implement the physical layerof the communications network. As the term is used herein, “PLMfunctionality” refers to the ability of a component or system tomanipulate or to enable others to manipulate the physical componentsused to implement the physical layer of the communications network(e.g., to track what is connected to each component, to traceconnections that are made using the components, or to provide visualindications to a user at a selected component).

As the term is used herein, “physical layer information” refers toinformation about the identity, attributes, and/or status of thephysical components used to implement the physical layer of thecommunications network. Physical layer information of the communicationsnetwork can include media information, device information, and locationinformation. Media information refers to physical layer informationpertaining to cables, plugs, connectors, and other such physical media.Non-limiting examples of media information include a part number, aserial number, a plug type, a conductor type, a cable length, cablepolarity, a cable pass-through capacity, a date of manufacture, amanufacturing lot number, the color or shape of the plug connector, aninsertion count, and testing or performance information. Deviceinformation refers to physical layer information pertaining to thecommunications panels, inter-networking devices, media converters,computers, servers, wall outlets, and other physical communicationsdevices to which the media segments attach. Location information refersto physical layer information pertaining to a physical layout of abuilding or buildings in which the network is deployed.

In accordance with some aspects, one or more of the components (e.g.,media segments, equipment, etc.) of the communications network areconfigured to store physical layer information pertaining to thecomponent as will be disclosed in more detail herein. Some componentsinclude media reading interfaces that are configured to read storedphysical layer information from the components. The physical layerinformation obtained by the media reading interface may be communicatedover the network for processing and/or storage.

For example, the adapter block assembly 110 of FIG. 1 can be configuredto collect physical layer information from the connector arrangements120, 130 terminating one or more of the media segments 122, 132. In someimplementations, the first connector arrangement 120 may include astorage device 125 that is configured to store physical layerinformation pertaining to the segment of physical communications media122 and/or to the first connector arrangement 120. In certainimplementations, the connector arrangement 130 also includes a storagedevice 135 that is configured to store information pertaining to thesecond connector arrangement 130 and/or to the second optic cable 132terminated thereby.

In one implementation, each of the storage devices 125, 135 isimplemented using an EEPROM (e.g., a PCB surface-mount EEPROM). In otherimplementations, the storage devices 125, 135 are implemented usingother non-volatile memory device. Each storage device 125, 135 isarranged and configured so that it does not interfere or interact withthe communications signals communicated over the media segments 122,132.

In accordance with some aspects, the adapter 110 is coupled to at leasta first media reading interface 116. In certain implementations, theadapter 110 also is coupled to at least a second media interface 118. Incertain implementations, the adapter 110 is coupled to multiple mediareading interfaces. In an example, the adapter 110 includes a mediareading interface for each port end defined by the adapter 110. Inanother example, the adapter 110 includes a media reading interface foreach connection opening 111 defined by the adapter 110. In otherimplementations, the adapter 110 can include any desired number of mediareading interfaces 116, 118.

In some implementations, at least the first media reading interface 116is mounted to a printed circuit board 115. In some implementations, theprinted circuit board 115 also can include the second media readinginterface 118. The printed circuit board 115 of the adapter 110 can becommunicatively connected to one or more programmable processors and/orto one or more network interfaces (see data line 119 of FIG. 1). Thenetwork interface may be configured to send the physical layerinformation to a physical layer data management network. Examples ofdata management networks can be found in U.S. Provisional ApplicationNo. 61/760,816, filed Feb. 5, 2013, and titled “Systems and Methods forAssociating Location Information with a Communication Sub-AssemblyHoused within a Communication Assembly,” the disclosures of which arehereby incorporated herein by reference.

When the first connector arrangement 120 is received in the first portend 112 of the adapter 110, the first media reading interface 116 isconfigured to enable reading (e.g., by an electronic processor) of theinformation stored in the storage device 125. The information read fromthe first connector arrangement 120 can be transferred through theprinted circuit board 115 to the physical layer data management network.When the second connector arrangement 130 is received in the second portend 114 of the adapter 110, the second media reading interface 118 isconfigured to enable reading (e.g., by an electronic processor) of theinformation stored in the storage device 135. The information read fromthe second connector arrangement 130 can be transferred through theprinted circuit board 115 or another circuit board to the physical layerdata management network.

In some such implementations, the storage devices 125, 135 and the mediareading interfaces 116, 118 each include at least three (3) leads—apower lead, a ground lead, and a data lead. The three leads of thestorage devices 125, 135 come into electrical contact with three (3)corresponding leads of the media reading interfaces 116, 118 when thecorresponding media segment is inserted in the corresponding port. Inother example implementations, a two-line interface is used with asimple charge pump. In still other implementations, additional leads canbe provided (e.g., for potential future applications). Accordingly, thestorage devices 125, 135 and the media reading interfaces 116, 118 mayeach include four (4) leads, five (5) leads, six (6) leads, etc.

FIGS. 2-5 illustrate one example optical connector 150 suitable forimplementing any of the connector arrangements 120, 130 of FIG. 1. Theoptical connector 150 includes a connector body 151 including a latch153 or other securement feature that enables the connector 150 to besecured to an adapter port. In some implementations, the opticalconnector 150 includes a contact region 152 at which one or moreelectrical contacts 154 can be coupled to the connector body 151. Forexample, the contacts 154 can be laid on a circuit board that is mountedto or within the body 151. The contacts 154 are electrically coupled toa memory or storage device that holds physical layer informationpertaining to the connector 150 and/or to an optical fiber terminated bythe connector 150.

One example contact assembly 160 suitable for implementing any of themedia reading interfaces 116, 118 of FIG. 1 also is shown. The contactassembly 160 includes a body 161 that holds one or more electricalcontacts 162 together. Each of the contacts 162 includes a contactsection 163 at which the contact 162 physically touches (e.g., pressesagainst, swipes along, etc.) one of the contacts 154 at the connectorcontact region 152 when the connector 150 is brought into contact withthe contact assembly 160 (see FIG. 5). For example, the contact sections163 may touch the connector contacts 154 when the connector 150 isplugged into a corresponding port end of an optical adapter. When theconnector 150 is brought into contact with the contact assembly 160,engagement with the connector contacts 154 causes the contact sections163 of the contact assembly contacts 162 to deflect towards the body 161(see FIG. 5).

Additional information about how physical layer information can be readfrom the plug connectors by the contact assemblies at adapters can befound in U.S. Publication No. 2011-0262077, the disclosure of which ishereby incorporated herein by reference.

In some implementations, the contact assembly 160 includes a sensingcontact 166 that extends outwardly from the body 161. A first of thecontacts 162 includes an extension 164 that aligns with the sensingcontact 166. When the optical connector 150 is spaced from the contactassembly 160, the extension 164 is spaced from the sensing contact 166(FIG. 3). When the contact sections 163 of the contact assembly contacts162 deflect towards the body 161, the extension 164 deflects towards thesensing contact 166. A first contact area 165 on the extension 164touches (e.g., presses against, swipes along, etc.) a second contactarea 167 on the sensing contact 166 (FIG. 5), thereby shorting the firstcontact 162 and the sensing contact 166 together. An electronicprocessor or other portion of the data management network determineswhen the contacts 162, 166 short together to identify when a connector150 has been inserted into an adapter port.

In some implementations, the contact assembly body 161 is configured tobe secured at an aperture defined in an adapter block. In otherimplementations, the contact assembly body 161 is configured to besecured to a circuit board or other surface. For example, in certainimplementations, the body 161 can include one or more pegs 168 thatextend outwardly from the body 161 to be received in apertures definedin the surface. In the example shown, the body 161 defines two pegs 168extending away from the contact sections 163. In certainimplementations, the contact assembly body 161 defines a tapered section169 that accommodates deflection of the contacts 162 (e.g., when anoptical connector 150 engages the contact assembly 160.

Further details regarding one example contact assembly suitable for useas contact assembly 160 are shown and described in copending U.S.Provisional Application No. 61/843,752, filed Jul. 8, 2013, and titled“Optical Assemblies with Managed Connectivity,” the disclosure of whichis hereby incorporated herein by reference.

In accordance with some aspects of the disclosure, one or more contactassemblies 160 can be mounted to an adapter block assembly. FIGS. 6-45illustrate various example implementations of connector assembliessuitable for receiving the contact assemblies 160. Each adapter blockassembly includes at least a first adapter block, at least a firstcircuit board, and at least a first cover. One or more contactassemblies 160 are disposed between the first adapter block and thefirst circuit board. In certain implementations, the first circuit boardholds the contact assemblies 160 to the first adapter block. In someimplementations, the first cover holds the first circuit board to thefirst adapter block. In other implementations, the first cover ismounted to the first circuit board. Certain type of connector assembliescan include multiple adapter blocks coupled together using a joiningmember. Certain type of connector assemblies can include multiplecircuit boards held together by a single cover or multiple coversmounted to a single circuit board.

FIGS. 6-20 illustrate a first example adapter block assembly 200suitable for implementing the adapter block assembly 110 of FIG. 1. Theadapter block assembly 200 has a front 201, a rear 202, a top 203, abottom 204, a first side 205, and a second side 206. A periphery 207 ofthe adapter block assembly 200 defined by the front 201, rear 202, andsides 205, 206 defines a staggered configuration. Ports 212 forreceiving optical connectors (e.g., optical connectors 150) alonginsertion axes A (FIG. 11) are provided at the front 201 and rear 202 ofthe adapter block assembly 200. In some implementations, adjacent ports212 are staggered forwardly/rearwardly relative to each other. In theexample shown, adjacent pairs of ports 212 are staggeredforwardly/rearwardly relative to each other. The staggering of the ports212 enhances access to individual connectors 150 plugged into the ports212.

Additional information about adapter blocks or other connectorassemblies having staggered configurations can be found in U.S.Publication No. 2013-0183018, filed Jan. 9, 2013, and titled “FiberOptic Adapter Block,” the disclosure of which is hereby incorporatedherein by reference.

As shown in FIG. 7, the adapter block assembly 200 includes a firstadapter block 210A, a second adapter block 210B, a joining member 220, acircuit board 230, and a cover 240. The joining member 220 couples thefirst and second adapter blocks 210A, 210B together. The circuit board230 couples to the joined first and second adapter blocks 210A, 210B.Contact assemblies 160 and circuit board components 234 (e.g., memory)are mounted to the circuit board 230. The contact assemblies 160 facetowards the adapter blocks 210A, 210B. The cover 240 extends over atleast some of the components 234 of the circuit board 230.

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the adapter block assembly 200 takenalong the insertion axis A of one of the ports 212. A first opticalconnector 150 is shown plugged into the right port 212 and the left port212 is shown empty. A ferrule of the optical connector 150 is held at asleeve 208 disposed between the left and right ports 212. The sleeve 208is configured to align and hold ferrules of connectors 150 inserted atopposite ports 212. The latch arm 153 of the connector 150 latches orotherwise secures to an interior of the adapter block 210.

A contact assembly 160 is disposed between the adapter block 210 and thecircuit board 230. A right contact assembly 160 corresponds with theright port 212 and a left contact assembly 160 corresponds with the leftport 212. Contacts 162 of the contact assembly 160 extend throughapertures 215 in the adapter block 210. The contacts 162 are positionedand oriented so that the contact sections 163 align with the contactregion 152 of optical connectors 150 received at corresponding ports212. Pegs 168 extend into the circuit board 230.

In some implementations, the circuit board 230 is mounted flush with theadapter block 210. For example, in certain implementations, the circuitboard 230 can be mounted within a recessed area 214 of the adapter block210 between end sections 218 (e.g., see FIGS. 9 and 10). The peripheryof the circuit board 230 is recessed inwardly relative to the ports 212.For example, in certain implementations, the adapter block 210 definesfront and rear curved sections 216 that extend downwardly from the endsections 218 and outwardly to define the front and rear ports 212. Thecircuit board 230 has a bottom surface 232 that seats on the recessedsection 214 and a top surface 231 that lies about level with the top ofthe end sections 218. In certain implementations, components 234 mountedto the first surface 231 of the board 230 extend upwardly past the topof the end sections 218.

Referring back to FIG. 8, the cover 240 extends over the first surface231 of the circuit board 230. The cover 240 has a top surface 241 thatfaces away from the circuit board 231 and a bottom surface 242 thatfaces towards the circuit board 232. In some implementations, the cover240 (e.g., the second surface 242) seats on the first surface 231. Inother implementations, a periphery of the cover 240 seats on the endsections 218. A hollow section of the cover 240 defined by a raisedsecond surface 242 extends over the first surface 231 of the circuitboard 230 to accommodate the board components 234.

In certain implementations, the periphery of the cover 240 seats on onlyportions of the end sections 218. For example, the periphery of thecover 240 can be recessed inwardly from the ports 212 to enhance accessto the ports 212. In an example, the periphery of the cover 240 can berecessed inwardly from the front and rear curved portions 216. In someimplementations, the cover 240 can define ramped or tapered sections 245at the front and rear of the cover 240. The tapered sections 245 furtherenhance access to the ports 212 by reducing the material that mightotherwise block finger access to the ports 212 when the cover 240 ismounted to the adapter block 210.

FIGS. 11-12 illustrate one example adapter block 210 suitable for use inthe adapter block assembly 200. The adapter block 210 includes a blockbody 211 that defines a plurality of front and rear ports 212. The frontports 212 align with the rear ports 212. The front ports 212 form alateral row that extends along a common (e.g., horizontal) axis. Therear ports 212 also form a lateral row that extends along a common(e.g., horizontal) axis. The top of the adapter block 210 defines therecessed area 214 between a front end section 218 and a rear end section218. Apertures 215 are defined in the recessed area 214 and extend intoa hollow interior of the adapter block 210.

In some implementations, the front ports 212 are located generally flushrelative to each other. In other implementations, however, a perimeterof the adapter block 210 can have a staggered configuration so that someof the front ports 212 are offset forwardly/rearwardly along theinsertion axes relative to others of the front ports 212. In oneexample, adjacent front ports 212 are forwardly/rearwardly offset fromeach other. In the example shown, sections of the adapter block 210 areforwardly/rearwardly offset from each other. For example, a firstsection 213A of the adapter block 210 is offset rearwardly relative to asecond section 213B of the adapter block 210 (see FIG. 11). In certainimplementations, each section 213A, 213B defines at least one of thefront ports 212 and one of the rear ports 212. In an example, eachsection 213A, 213B defines two each of the front and rear ports 212.

In some implementations, the adapter block 210 is configured to becoupled to one or more adapter blocks 210 and/or to be coupled to atray, blade, drawer, tray, or other such structure (hereinafter “tray”).In certain implementations, each adapter block 210 includes anengagement member 217 that extends outwardly from at least one side 205,206 of the adapter block 210. In an example, an engagement member 217extends outwardly from both sides 205, 206 of the adapter block 210. Incertain implementations, the engagement member 217 has a T-shapedprofile when viewed from above or below the adapter block 210. Forexample, the engagement member 217 can have a first portion 217 aextending outwardly from the side 205, 206 of the adapter block 210 anda second portion 217 b extending generally orthogonally across the firstportion 217 a (FIG. 12). In certain implementations, a stop member 219also extends outwardly from opposite sides 205, 206 of the adapter block210.

Referring to FIGS. 13-17, two or more adapter blocks 210 can be coupledtogether using a joining member 220. As shown in FIG. 13, the joiningmember 220 includes a body 221 defining one or more interior cavities222 that are sized to receive the engagement members 217 of the adapterblocks 210. In the example shown in FIG. 15, the joining member 220includes a first interior cavity 222A that is separated from a secondinterior cavity 222B. In certain implementations, two cavities 222 areformed at opposite sides of the joining member 220 to hold two adapterblocks 210 together end-to-end. In an example, each interior cavity222A, 222B extends along two adjacent sides of the joining member toform an L-shape.

Each cavity 222 is accessible through an open bottom of the joiningmember 220 (FIG. 15), a respective aperture 224 defined in a top of thejoining member 220 (FIG. 16), and a respective slot 223 (FIG. 14)defined in one of the sides of the joining member body 221. The slots223 of the joining member 220 are sized to enable an adapter blockengagement member 217 to enter one of the cavities 222 (see FIG. 13).For example, the engagement member 217 can be slid into the cavity 222through the open bottom of the joining member 220 with the first portion217 a of engagement member 217 passing through the slot 223. The secondportion 217 b of the engagement member 217 abuts against the body 221 tohold the adapter block 210 laterally relative to the joining member 220(see FIG. 13).

In some implementations, a latching hook 225 extends downwardly withineach of the cavities 222 of the joining member 220. For example, in FIG.17, a first latching hook 225A extends downwardly within cavity 222A anda second latching hook 225B extends downwardly within cavity 222B. Eachlatching hook 225A, 225B defines a shoulder 226 facing towards the topof the joining member 220. Each latching hook 225A, 225B is configuredto deflect laterally within the cavity 222A, 222B. When the engagementmember 217 is being slid into the cavity 222, the section portion 217 bof the engagement member 217 pushes against the latching hook 225 tocause deflection of the latching hook 225 away from the slot 223. Whenthe engagement member 217 has been fully inserted within the cavity 222,the latching hook 225 snaps over the section portion 217 b of theengagement member 217 to hold the engagement member 217 within thecavity 222 (see FIG. 13).

FIG. 18 illustrates an example circuit board arrangement suitable foruse with the adapter block assembly 200. The example circuit boardarrangement includes a circuit board 230 having contact assemblies 160mounted to a second surface 232. In some implementations, a perimeter233 of the circuit board 230 has a staggered configuration so that someof the contact assemblies 160 are mounted further forwardly/rearwardlyrelative to others of the contact assemblies 160. In the example shownin FIG. 7, the staggered configuration of the circuit board 230generally aligns with the staggered configuration of the adapter blocks210.

The circuit board 230 shown in FIG. 18 is configured to couple to twodifferent adapter blocks 210. For example, the circuit board 230includes an intermediate portion 236 sized to extend over a joiningmember 220 coupling together two adapter blocks 210. A circuit boardconnector 235 extends downwardly from the second surface 232 of thecircuit board 230 at the intermediate portion 236. The circuit boardconnector 235 is configured to electrically connect the circuit board230 (e.g., and hence components 234 and contacts 160 on the circuitboard 230) to a second circuit board or other electrical circuit as willbe disclosed in more detail herein. In certain implementations, thejoining member 220 is sized to accommodate passage of the circuit boardconnector 235 between the adapter blocks 210 and within the periphery233 of the circuit board 230.

FIGS. 19 and 20 illustrate mounting the adapter block assembly 200 to anexample tray 250. The tray 250 is configured to receive at least oneadapter block assembly 200. In some implementations, the tray 250 alsois configured to manage optical fibers/cables routed to the ports 212 ofthe adapter block assembly 200. In the example shown in FIG. 19, thetray 250 includes cross-members 253 extending between two side rails251, 252. A mounting rail 254 extends between the cross-members 253. Insome implementations, latching fingers 256 extend upwardly from themounting rail 254.

The latching fingers 256 are configured to engage the adapter blockassembly 200 (e.g., the joining member 220) to further secure theadapter block assembly 200 to the tray 250. In certain implementations,two latching fingers 256 face in opposite directions towards the siderails 251, 252. In certain implementations, the latching fingers 256extend upwardly through the cavities 222 defined in the joining member220 and through the apertures 224 defined at the top of the joiningmember 220 to latch over the top of the joining member 220. In otherimplementations, the latching members 256 latch over shoulders definedwithin the joining member 220. In still other implementations, anothertype of adapter block assembly securement structure can be disposed atthe mounting rail 254.

Mounting structures 255 are provided at the inner sides of the siderails 251, 252. In certain implementations, the mounting structures 255are laterally aligned. The mounting structures 255 are configured toreceive the engagement members 217 of the adapter blocks 217. Forexample, the mounting structures 255 receive the engagement members 217extending outwardly from the sides 205, 206 of the adapter blockassembly 200. In an example, each mounting structures 255 defines aT-shaped cavity having an open top through which an engagement member217 can slide. Each mounting structures 255 also includes a shelf onwhich the engagement member 217 can seat.

In certain implementations, the tray 250 is moveable (e.g., slideable,pivotal, etc.) relative to a rack, cabinet, or other mounting structure.For example, exterior surfaces of the side rails 251, 252 can includeguides 258 that interact with guides on the holding structure. Incertain implementations, the tray 250 includes cable management guides259 that form routing paths for optical fibers/cables routed onto thetray 250. The management guides 259 may aid in managing the opticalfibers/cables during movement of the tray 250.

In some implementations, the tray 250 provides an electrical connectionbetween the adapter block assembly 200 and a data management network. Insome implementations, an electrical circuit (e.g., a second circuitboard) is mounted to the mounting rail 254. For example, the mountingrail 254 and/or one or more of the cross-members 253 can define a pocketor channel sized to fit the circuit board (e.g., see FIG. 46). Thecircuit board includes connectors (e.g., pin receptacles) configured toreceive the circuit board connectors 235 of the printed circuit board230 within the adapter block assembly 200. In some implementations, thecircuit board extends over the mounting rail 254 and over at least partof one of the cross-members 253 towards an aperture in the second siderail 252 through which the circuit board can connect to a chassiselectrical circuit (e.g., backplane, cable, etc.).

In other implementations, an electrical cable (e.g., a flexible cable)or other circuit can extend from the chassis electrical circuit, throughthe aperture in the second side rail 252, extend across at least part ofthe cross-members 253, and connect to the second circuit board. A covercan be positioned over the cross-member channel to protect the flexcircuit. In an example, the cover can be latched (e.g., using latches256) other otherwise secured to the cross-member 253. In certainimplementations, the chassis electrical circuit includes a localprocessor to manage the data obtained from the adapter block assembly200. In other implementations, the chassis electrical circuit includes adata port through which the data can be carried to a data managementnetwork.

FIGS. 21-35 illustrate a second example adapter block assembly 300suitable for implementing the adapter block assembly 110 of FIG. 1. Theadapter block assembly 300 has a front 301, a rear 302, a top 303, abottom 304, a first side 305, and a second side 306. A periphery 307 ofthe adapter block assembly 300 defined by the front 301, rear 302, andsides 305, 306 defines a staggered configuration. Ports 312 forreceiving optical connectors (e.g., optical connectors 150) alonginsertion axes are provided at the front 301 and rear 302 of the secondadapter block assembly 300. In some implementations, adjacent ports 312are staggered forwardly/rearwardly relative to each other. In theexample shown, adjacent pairs of ports 312 are staggeredforwardly/rearwardly relative to each other. The staggering of the ports312 enhances access to individual connectors 150 plugged into the ports312.

As shown in FIG. 23, the adapter block assembly 300 includes a firstadapter block 310A, a second adapter block 310B, a joining member 320, acircuit board 330, a first cover 340A, a second cover 340B, and anintermediate cover 350. The joining member 320 couples the first andsecond adapter blocks 310A, 310B together. The circuit board 330 seatson the joined first and second adapter blocks 310A, 310B. The first andsecond covers 340A, 340B are disposed over the circuit board 330 andcouples to the adapter blocks 310A, 310B as will be disclosed in moredetail herein. The intermediate cover 350 extends over an intermediateportion 336 of the circuit board 330 between the first and second covers340A, 340B. In other implementations, the covers 340A, 340B, 350 can beformed as a single piece. In still other implementations, the circuitboard 330 can be separated into multiple pieces.

Contact assemblies 160 and circuit board components 334 (e.g., memory)are mounted to the circuit board 330. For example, at least some of thecomponents 334 can be mounted to a first side 331 of the circuit board330 and the contact assemblies 160 can be mounted to a second side 332of the circuit board 330. The contact assemblies 160 face towards theadapter blocks 310A, 310B when the circuit board 330 is disposed betweenthe adapter blocks 310 and the covers 340. The covers 340A, 340B extendsover at least some of the components 334 of the circuit board 330. Insome implementations, the covers 340A, 340B are secured to the adapterblocks 310A, 310B, thereby holding the circuit board 330 therebetween.

FIGS. 24 and 25 illustrate one example adapter block 310 suitable foruse as adapter blocks 310A, 310B. The example adapter block 310 includesan adapter body 311 defining one or more front ports 312 and one or morerear ports 312. Each front port 312 aligns with one of the rear ports312. The front ports 312 form a lateral row that extends along a common(e.g., horizontal) axis. The rear ports 312 also form a lateral row thatextends along a common (e.g., horizontal) axis.

In some implementations, the front ports 312 are located generally flushrelative to each other. In other implementations, however, a perimeterof the adapter block 310 can have a staggered configuration so that someof the front ports 312 are offset forwardly/rearwardly along theinsertion axes relative to others of the front ports 312. In oneexample, adjacent front ports 312 are forwardly/rearwardly offset fromeach other. In the example shown, sections of the adapter block 310 areforwardly/rearwardly offset from each other. For example, a firstsection 313A of the adapter block 310 is offset rearwardly relative toan adjacent second section 313B of the adapter block 310 (see FIG. 24).In certain implementations, each section 313A, 313B defines at least oneof the front ports 312 and one of the rear ports 312. In an example,each section 313A, 313B defines two each of the front and rear ports312.

The top of the adapter block 310 defines the recessed area 314 between afront end section 318 and a rear end section 318. The recessed area 314enables the circuit board 330 to be flush mounted with the adapter block310. For example, a circuit board 330 mounted in the recessed area 314would lie flush with a top of the front and rear end sections 318.Apertures 315 are defined in the recessed area 314 and extend into ahollow interior of the adapter block 310. The contact assemblies 160 ofthe circuit board 330 extend through the apertures 310 when the circuitboard 330 is disposed at the recessed area 314. In certainimplementations, the adapter block 310 defines front and rear curvedsections 316 that extend downwardly from the end sections 318 andoutwardly to define the front and rear ports 312.

The adapter block 310 is configured to latch to the cover 340. Forexample, in some implementations, the adapter block 310 can includelatch arms 361 that extend upwardly from a top of the adapter block 310.The latch arms 361 include latch hooks 362 that extend outwardly fromthe latch arms 361. In the example shown, a front latch arm 361 and arear latch arm 361 extend upwardly at each section 313 of the adapterblock 310 (see FIG. 24). In other implementations, a greater or fewernumber of latch arms 361 may extend upwardly from the adapter block 310.

FIGS. 26-29 illustrate an example cover 340 that is configured toreceive the latch arms 361 to secure the cover 340 to the adapter block310. The example cover 340 has a first surface 341 facing away from theadapter block 310, a second surface 342 facing towards the adapter block310, and a perimeter 343 extending between the first and second surfaces341, 342. In some implementations, the cover 340 is sized so that theperimeter 343 is recessed inwardly from a perimeter of the adapter block310 to enhance access to the ports 312 (and connectors inserted therein)of the adapter block 310. In certain implementations, the cover 340defines tapered or chamfered edges 344 extending between the firstsurface 341 and the perimeter 343.

The cover 340 also defines through-openings 347 that extend through thefirst and second surfaces 341, 342 of the cover 340. Thethrough-openings 347 are wider than the latch arms 361. The cover 340also defines platforms 348 adjacent the through-openings 347. As shownin FIG. 27, each through-opening 347 includes a first portion 347 a thatis sized to enable the entire latch arm 361 to pass therethrough withoutdeflecting the latch arm 361. The through-openings 347 also definesecond portions 347 b adjacent the platforms 348. The second portions347 b are too small to enable the latch hooks 362 of the latch arms 361to pass therethrough. Accordingly, when the cover 340 is mounted to theadapter block 310, the latch arms 361 are inserted through the firstportions 347 a of the through-openings 347. When the latch hooks 362 ofthe arms 361 clear the openings 347, the cover 340 is laterally moved sothat the platforms 348 are disposed beneath the latch hooks 362 of thearms 361. The platforms 348 inhibit passage of the latch arms 361 backthrough the through-openings 347. Friction and the contact force betweenthe latch hooks 362 and the platforms 348 inhibits a return lateralmovement of the cover 340 to align the latch hooks 362 with the firstthrough-opening portions 347 a.

As seen in FIG. 28, the second surface 342 of the cover 340 definesrecesses 346 that extend through the perimeter 343 of the cover 340. Therecesses 346 accommodate LEDs or other light indicators mounted to thecircuit board 330. Light from the indicators can shine through therecesses 346 in the perimeter to identify a section of the adapter block310. For example, the cover 340 can define a recess 346 for each port312 of the adapter block 310. In such implementations, the recesses 346align with the respective port 312 identified by the correspondingindicator.

In some implementations, the adapter block 310 is configured to becoupled to one or more adapter blocks 310 and/or to be coupled to a tray(e.g., tray 250 of FIGS. 19-20), or other such structure. In certainimplementations, each adapter block 310 includes an engagement member317 that extends outwardly from at least one side 305, 306 of theadapter block 310. In an example, an engagement member 317 extendsoutwardly from both sides 305, 306 of the adapter block 310.

In certain implementations, the engagement member 317 has an H-shapedprofile when viewed from the side 305, 306 the adapter block 310. Forexample, the engagement member 317 can have a two L-shaped flanges 317 aextending outwardly from the side 305, 306 of the adapter block 310; ashelf 317 b extending between the flanges 317 a, and a ramp or taperedsection 317 c extending inwardly from the shelf 317 b towards the side305, 306 of the adapter block 310. The L-shaped flanges 317 a faceforwardly and rearwardly of the adapter block 310 (see FIG. 24). Incertain implementations, a stop member 319 also extends outwardly fromopposite sides 305, 306 of the adapter block 310.

Referring to FIGS. 30-33, two or more adapter blocks 310 can be coupledtogether using a joining member 320. As shown in FIG. 30, the joiningmember 320 includes a body 321 defining an open bottom leading to agenerally hollow interior. The joining body 321 also defines openings322 at the first and second ends of the body 321 that lead to the hollowinterior. The top of the joining body 321 is configured to enable theintermediate portion 336 of the circuit board 330 to extend thereover.For example, in certain implementations, the body 321 defines anaperture 327 through which a circuit board connector 335 can pass (e.g.,see FIG. 22) to enable connection between the circuit board 330 and anelectrical circuit disposed beneath the adapter blocks 310.

Sidewalls of the body 321 define one or more receiving slots 323 thatare sized to receive the engagement members 317 of the adapter blocks310. In the example shown in FIG. 32, the joining member 320 includes afirst receiving slot 323A at a first sidewall of the joining member 320and a second receiving slot 323B at an opposite sidewall of the joiningmember 320. The joining member 320 holds two adapter blocks 310 togetherend-to-end (see FIGS. 21 and 22). Each receiving slot 323 extendsthrough a top and corresponding side of the joining member 320. Theslots 323 are sized to enable an adapter block engagement member 317(e.g., the flanges 317 a) to enter the slot 323 through the top of thejoining member 320.

In some implementations, the joining member 320 also includes a latchingarm 324 that extends upwardly within one or more of the receiving slots323. The latching arm 324 includes a latching hook 325 that extendsoutwardly from the arm 324. When the engagement member 317 of theadapter block 310 is slit into the receiving slot 323, the ramp 317 c ofthe engagement member 317 cams against the latching hook 325 to deflectthe arm 324 inwardly until the latching hook 325 clears the shelf 317 b.The arm 324 returns to its initial position so that the latching hook325 catches on the shelf 317 b. The latching arm 324 inhibits theadapter block 310 from being slid out of engagement with the joiningmember 320.

In some implementations, opposite sides of the joining member 320 eachdefine a second slot 326 adjacent the receiving slot 323. The secondslot 326 does not extend fully through the side of the joining member320. The second slot 326 is sized to receive the stop member 319 whenthe adapter block engagement member 317 is slid into the receiving slot323. Interaction between the second slot 326 and the stop member 319inhibits the adapter block 310 from sliding all the way through thejoining member 320. In some implementations, the joining body 321 alsoincludes protrusions 329 that extend outwardly from the body 321adjacent the receiving slots 323. For example, the protrusions 329 canbe disposed beneath the receiving slots 323 at the sidewalls. In certainimplementations, the adapter blocks 310 may seat on the protrusions 329to inhibit movement of the adapter blocks 310 past the joining member320.

In some implementations, the joining member 320 includes a retentionmember 328 disposed at each of the first and second open ends of thebody 321. For example, each retention member 328 can be formed at a topof the body 321 and face out towards the respective end opening 322. Incertain implementations, the retention member 328 can be inwardlyrecessed into the top of the body 321 relative to the open end of thebody 321.

FIGS. 34-35 illustrate one example intermediate cover 350 that isconfigured to mount over the intermediate portion 336 of the circuitboard 330. In some implementations, the intermediate cover 350 isconfigured to couple to the joining member 320. For example, in certainimplementations, the intermediate cover 350 includes a body 351 fromwhich two latching arms 352 extend downwardly at opposite ends. Eachlatching arm 352 includes a latching hook 353 that is configured tosnap-fit, latch, or otherwise secure to the retention member 328 at oneend of the joining member body 321. The intermediate cover 350 defines ahollow interior or recessed inner surface that accommodates anycomponents 334 mounted to the intermediate portion 336 of the circuitboard 330. In some implementations, the intermediate cover 350 fitsbetween, but does not couple to the first and second covers 340A, 340B(see FIG. 21). In other implementations, the intermediate cover 350 canbe coupled to the first and second covers 340A, 340B.

Referring now to FIGS. 36-37, one or more cover pieces of an adapterblock assembly can be secured to one or more adapter blocks using heatstaking. For example, FIGS. 36-37 illustrate a third example adapterblock assembly 400 including an adapter block 410, a circuit board 430,and a cover 440. In the example shown, each of these three components isformed from as a single-piece unit. In other implementations, however,any of these components could be formed from multiple pieces (e.g.,multiple adapter blocks with joining members, multiple circuit boards,multiple cover pieces, etc.). In certain implementations, the adapterblock assembly 400 can be configured to mount to a tray (e.g., tray 250of FIGS. 19 and 20), or other structure.

The adapter block 410 includes a body 411 defining a plurality of frontand rear connector ports 412. The adapter body 411 includes somesections 413 that are offset forwardly or rearwardly relative to othersections 413. For example, a first section 413A shown in FIG. 36 isoffset forwardly relative to a second section 413B. In otherimplementations, however, the ports 412 of the adapter block 310 may beflush. In some implementations, the adapter block body 411 has a firstgroup of ports 412 at a first side, a second group of ports 412 at asecond side, and an intermediate portion 414 that separates the firstand second groups. The intermediate portion 414 does not define ports412.

A top of the adapter block 410 defines apertures 415 at which contactassemblies 160 can be mounted. In some implementations, a contactassembly 160 is disposed at each port 412. In other implementations, acontact assembly 160 can be disposed at alternate ports 412 and/or atthe ports 412 on only the front or rear of the adapter block 410. Heatstakes 416 extend upwardly from the top of the adapter block 410. In theexample shown, a front heat stake 416 and a rear heat stake 416 extendupwardly at each section 413 of the adapter block 410 except for theintermediate portion 414. In other implementations, the adapter block410 can include any desired number of heat stakes 416.

The circuit board 430 includes a board body 431 on which electricalcomponents 432 can be mounted. The circuit board body 431 also isconfigured to electrically couple to the contact assemblies 160 (e.g.,via contact pads). The board body 431 defines openings 433 through whichthe heat stakes 416 extend when the circuit board 430 is seated on theadapter block 410.

The cover 440 is configured to extend over the circuit board 430 and toattach to the adapter block 410. The cover 440 includes a top plate 441from which tabs 442 extend downwardly. The tabs 442 are configured toseat on the circuit board 430. For example, in some implementations, thetabs 442 are configured to seat on the board body 431 (see FIG. 37). Inother implementations, the tabs 442 can be configured to seat oncomponents 432 of the circuit board 430. The tabs 442 raise the topplate 441 sufficiently far off the circuit board 430 to accommodate thecircuit board components 432 beneath the top plate 441.

The cover 440 defines through-holes 443 that extend through the topplate 441 of the cover 440. The through-holes 443 are defined throughwells 444 extending downwardly from the top plate 441. The through-holes443 are sized to accommodate passage of the heat stakes 416 of theadapter blocks 410 when the circuit board 430 and cover 440 are mountedto the adapter block 410. The wells 444 define counter-bores 445 leadingto the exterior surface of the top plate 441. The counter-bores 445 arefrustro-conical portions of the through-hole 443 that taper away fromthe heat stakes 416. In certain implementations, the heat stakes 416 aresized to extend beyond the top plate 441 of the cover 440.

To secure the adapter block assembly 400 together, the tips of the heatstakes 416 are melted. The melted heat stakes 416 at least partiallyfill the counter-bores 445. In some implementations, the melted heatstakes 416 are generally flush with the exterior surface of the covertop plate 441. In other implementations, the melted heat stakes 416 canbe recessed inwardly or can protrude outwardly from the cover top plate441. In certain implementations, the melted heat stake material fillingthe counter-bores 445 does not fit through the wells 444, therebyinhibiting removal of the cover 440 from the adapter block 410. Forexample, the melted material may have a frustro-conical shape or othershape having a maximum cross-dimension that is greater than an internalcross-dimension of the well 444. In certain implementations, the meltedheat stake material fuses or otherwise bonds to the material forming thecover 440 to inhibit removal of the cover 440 from the adapter block410.

In some implementations, the heat stakes 416 are positioned adjacent thecontact assemblies 160 (e.g., adjacent the apertures 415) mounted to theadapter block 410. Accordingly, the bond between the cover 440 and theadapter block 410 is strongest near the contact assemblies 160. Thesebonds facilitate holding the cover 440 and hence the circuit board 430against the adapter block 410 despite any deflection of the contactassembly 160 (e.g., the sensing contact 166) against the circuit board430. Maintaining the position of the circuit board 430 even duringdeflection of the contact assembly 160 enhances the connection betweenthe electrical contacts 162 of the contact assembly 160 and contact padson the circuit board 430.

FIGS. 38-45 illustrate a fourth example adapter block assembly 500suitable for implementing the adapter block assembly 110 of FIG. 1. Theadapter block assembly 500 has a front 501, a rear 502, a top 503, abottom 504, a first side 505, and a second side 506. A periphery 507 ofthe adapter block assembly 500 defined by the front 501, rear 502, andsides 505, 506 defines a staggered configuration. Ports 512 forreceiving optical connectors (e.g., optical connectors 150) alonginsertion axes are provided at the front 501 and rear 502 of the secondadapter block assembly 500. In some implementations, adjacent ports 512are staggered forwardly/rearwardly relative to each other. In theexample shown, adjacent pairs of ports 512 are staggeredforwardly/rearwardly relative to each other. The staggering of the ports512 enhances access to individual connectors 150 plugged into the ports512.

The fourth example adapter block assembly 500 includes an adapter block510, a circuit board 530, and a cover 540. In the example shown, each ofthese three components 510, 530, 540 is formed from as a single-pieceunit. In other implementations, however, any of these components 510,530, 540 could be formed from multiple pieces (e.g., multiple adapterblocks with joining members, multiple circuit boards, multiple coverpieces, etc.).

The adapter block 510 includes a body 511 defining a plurality of frontand rear connector ports 512. The adapter body 511 includes somesections 513 that are offset forwardly or rearwardly relative to othersections 513. For example, a first section 513A shown in FIG. 40 isoffset forwardly relative to a second section 513B. In otherimplementations, however, the ports 512 of the adapter block 510 may beflush. In some implementations, the adapter block body 511 has a firstgroup of ports 512 at a first side, a second group of ports 512 at asecond side, and an intermediate portion 514 that separates the firstand second groups. The intermediate portion 514 does not define ports512.

A top of the adapter block 510 defines apertures 515 at which contactassemblies 160 can be mounted. In some implementations, a contactassembly 160 is disposed at each port 512. In other implementations, acontact assembly 160 can be disposed at alternate ports 512 and/or atthe ports 512 on only the front or rear of the adapter block 510. Heatstakes 516 extend upwardly from the top of the adapter block 510. In theexample shown, a front heat stake 516 and a rear heat stake 516 extendupwardly at each section 513 of the adapter block 510 except for theintermediate portion 514. In other implementations, the adapter block510 can include any desired number of heat stakes 516.

In some implementations, the adapter block 510 can be configured tomount to a tray (e.g., tray 250 of FIGS. 19 and 20), or other structure.For example, in certain implementations, sides 505, 506 of the adapterblock 510 include engagement members 517 that extend outwardly from theadapter body 511. The engagement members 517 can be configured to fitinto slots defined in the tray. In certain implementations, the adapterblock 510 also can include stop members 519 that also are configured tointeract with retention structures on the tray. As shown in FIGS. 41-42,the intermediate portion 514 of the adapter block 510 can include inwardprotrusions 508 that are configured to engage latch arms (e.g., latcharms 256 of FIG. 19) to secure the adapter block 510 to the tray.

The circuit board 530 includes a board body 531 on which electricalcomponents 532 can be mounted. The circuit board body 531 also isconfigured to electrically couple to the contact assemblies 160 (e.g.,via contact pads). The board body 531 defines openings through which theheat stakes 516 extend when the circuit board 530 is seated on theadapter block 510. The board body 531 also includes an intermediateportion 534 that is configured to extend over the intermediate portion514 of the adapter block 510. A circuit board connector 535 can extenddownwardly from the circuit board body 531 and through an aperture 518defined in the intermediate portion 514 of the adapter block 510 toconnect to an electrical circuit disposed beneath the adapter block 510.

The cover 540 is configured to extend over the circuit board 530 and toattach to the adapter block 510. The cover 540 includes a top plate 541from which sidewalls 542 extend downwardly. The sidewalls 542 areconfigured to seat on the circuit board 430. For example, in someimplementations, the sidewalls 542 are configured to seat on the boardbody 530. In other implementations, the sidewalls 542 can be configuredto seat on components 532 of the circuit board 430. The sidewalls 542raise the top plate 541 sufficiently far off the circuit board 530 toaccommodate the circuit board components 532 beneath the top plate 541.In certain implementations, tabs 547 also extend downwardly from the topplate 541 to hold the top plate 541 off the circuit board 530. Incertain implementations, the sidewalls 542 define apertures 546 thatlead to a hollow interior of the cover 540. The apertures 546 enablelight from indicators (e.g., LEDs) mounted to the circuit board 530 toshine through and indicate an adapter port 512.

The cover 540 defines through-holes 543 that extend through the topplate 541. The through-holes 543 are defined through wells 544 extendingdownwardly from the top plate 541 (see FIG. 45). The through-holes 543are sized to accommodate passage of the heat stakes 516 of the adapterblocks 510 when the circuit board 530 and cover 540 are mounted to theadapter block 510. The wells 544 define counter-bores 545 (FIG. 44)leading to the exterior surface of the top plate 541. The counter-bores545 are frustro-conical portions of the through-hole 543 that taper awayfrom the heat stakes 516. In certain implementations, the heat stakes516 are sized to extend beyond the top plate 541 of the cover 540.

To secure the components 510, 530, 540 of the adapter block assembly 500together, the tips of the heat stakes 516 are melted. The melted tips atleast partially fill the counter-bores 545. In some implementations, themelted heat stakes 516 are generally flush with the exterior surface ofthe cover top plate 541. In other implementations, the melted heatstakes 516 can be recessed inwardly or can protrude outwardly from thecover top plate 541. In certain implementations, the melted heat stakematerial filling the counter-bores 545 does not fit through the wells544, thereby inhibiting removal of the cover 540 from the adapter block510. For example, the melted material may have a frustro-conical shapeor other shape having a maximum cross-dimension that is greater than aninternal cross-dimension of the well 544. In certain implementations,the melted heat stake material fuses or otherwise bonds to the materialforming the cover 540 to inhibit removal of the cover 540 from theadapter block 510.

In accordance with some aspects of the disclosure, some of the adapterblock assemblies disclosed above have heights of no more than 13 mmincluding the adapters, the contact assemblies, the circuit boardassemblies, and any cover assembly or housing assembly. For example,some of the adapter block assemblies have heights of no more than 12.75mm. Certain of the adapter block assemblies have heights of no more than12.5 mm. In an example, certain of the adapter block assemblies haveheights of no more than 12.55 mm. In certain implementations, theadapter assemblies by themselves can have heights of no more than 9.5mm. In an example, certain of the adapter block assemblies by themselvescan have heights of no more than 9.35 mm. In certain implementations,the adapter assemblies by themselves can have heights of no more than 9mm. In certain implementations, the adapter assemblies by themselves canhave heights of no more than 8.5 mm. In certain implementations, theadapter assemblies by themselves can have heights of no more than 8 mm.

FIG. 46 illustrates an example tray arrangement 600 including anotherexample tray 610 to which any of the adapter block assemblies disclosedherein can be mounted. A circuit board arrangement 620 is configured tomount to the tray 610. The circuit board arrangement 620 is configuredto communicate with components (e.g., a controller) of the circuit boardarrangement of the adapter block assembly mounted to the tray 610. Thetray 610 is configured to be slideably mounted to a side plane 640. Aflexible cable 630 or other electrical circuit connects the circuitboard arrangement 620 of the tray 610 to an electrical circuit or localprocessor located at or connected to the side plane 640. The tray 610also can be configured to manage optical fibers routed to the ports ofthe adapter block assembly mounted to the tray 610.

In the example shown in FIG. 46, the tray 610 includes cross-members 613extending between two side rails 611, 612. A mounting rail 614 extendsbetween the cross-members 613. In some implementations, mounting members616 extend upwardly from the mounting rail 614. The mounting members 616are configured to engage an adapter block assembly to further secure theadapter block assembly to the tray 610. Mounting structures 615 also areprovided at the inner sides of the side rails 611, 612. In certainimplementations, the mounting structures 615 are laterally aligned witheach other and with the mounting members 616.

The mounting rail 614 defines a pocket 617 at which the circuit board620 can be mounted. Connection members 622 are mounted to the circuitboard 620 in alignment with circuit board contact members of the adapterblock assembly to be mounted to the tray 610. The circuit board 620 alsoincludes a connection member 625 at a cross-member 613. In certainimplementations, at least part of the cross-member 613 can also definepart of the pocket 617. At least a portion 632 of the flexible cable 630can be routed through the second side rail 612, through the pocket 617along the cross-member 613, to the connection member 625 of the circuitboard 620. A cover 618 can be mounted to the cross-member 613 to cover(e.g., protect) the flexible cable portion 632.

An opposite end 636 of the flexible cable is routed to or through theside plane 640. The side plane 640 defines one or more guide slots 642along which the tray 610 can slide. For example, one of the side rails611, 612 of the tray 610 can slide along one of the guide slots 642. Theflexible cable 630 includes an intermediate length 634 that extendsbetween the side rail 612 of the tray 610 and the side plane 640. Theintermediate length 634 is folded back on itself to accommodate movementof the tray 610 relative to the side plane 640.

Information about how such trays (e.g., trays 610) can be moveablymounted within a chassis or rack and how such an arrangement can be usedwithin a telecommunications system can be found in copending U.S.application Ser. No. ______, filed Jan. 31, 2014, and titled “SlidableTelecommunications Tray with Cable Slack Management,” and havingattorney docket number 02316.3597USU1, the disclosure of which is herebyincorporated herein by reference. Another system including trays onwhich the adapter blocks and cassettes disclosed herein can be mountedis disclosed in copending U.S. application Ser. No. 13/925,375, filedJun. 24, 2013, and titled “Slidable Fiber Optic Connection Module withCable Slack Management,” the disclosure of which is hereby incorporatedherein by reference.

FIGS. 47-55 illustrate a fifth example adapter block assembly 700suitable for implementing the adapter block assembly 110 of FIG. 1. Theadapter block assembly 700 has a front 701, a rear 702, a top 703, abottom 704, a first side 705, and a second side 706. A periphery 707 ofthe adapter block assembly 700 defined by the front 701, rear 702, andsides 705, 706 defines a staggered configuration. Ports 712 forreceiving optical connectors (e.g., optical connectors 150) alonginsertion axes are provided at the front 701 and rear 702 of the secondadapter block assembly 700. In some implementations, adjacent ports 712are staggered forwardly/rearwardly relative to each other. In theexample shown, adjacent pairs of ports 712 are staggeredforwardly/rearwardly relative to each other. The staggering of the ports712 enhances access to individual connectors 150 plugged into the ports712.

The fifth example adapter block assembly 700 includes at least oneadapter block arrangement 710, a circuit board 730 (FIG. 50), and acover arrangement 740. The adapter block arrangement 710 includes afirst adapter block 710A, a second adapter block 710B, and a joiningmember 720. The joining member 720 couples the first and second adapterblocks 710A, 710B together. In other implementations, the adapter blockarrangement 710 can be formed as a single piece. The circuit board 730seats on the adapter block arrangement 710 so that a first surface 731faces away from the adapter block arrangement 710 and a second surface732 faces towards the adapter block arrangement 710 (see FIG. 50).

The circuit board 730 shown in FIG. 50 includes an intermediate portion736 sized to extend over the joining member 720 coupling together theadapter blocks 710A, 710B. A circuit board connector 735 (FIG. 50)extends downwardly from the second surface 732 of the circuit board 730at the intermediate portion 736. The circuit board connector 735 isconfigured to electrically connect the circuit board 730 (e.g., andhence contacts 160 mating with the circuit board 730) to a dataprocessing network (e.g., via another circuit board or flex circuit) aswill be disclosed in more detail herein. In certain implementations, thejoining member 720 is sized to accommodate passage of the circuit boardconnector 735 therethrough.

In some implementations, the joining member 720 includes a shroud 727through which pins of the connector 735 extend. The shroud 727 inhibitsdamage (e.g., bending, breaking, etc.) to the pins when the adapterblock arrangement 710 is being mounted to the tray arrangement 600 orother mounting surface. In certain implementations, the joining member720 includes two shrouds 727 (e.g., a forward shroud and a rearwardshroud). The shrouds 727 accommodate multiple connectors on the tray610. In an example, the pin connector 735 extends through the forwardshroud 727 and into a first of two female connectors on the tray 610 anda second of the female connectors is received in the rearward shroud727. In another example, the adapter block assembly 700 is rotated 180°relative to the tray 610 so that the pin connector 735 extends throughthe forward shroud 727 and into the second female connector on the tray610 and the first female connector is received in the rearward shroud727.

The cover arrangement 740 includes a first cover 740A, a second cover740B, and an intermediate cover 750. The first and second covers 740A,740B are disposed over the circuit board 730 and coupled to the adapterblocks 710A, 710B as will be disclosed in more detail herein. Theintermediate cover 750 extends over an intermediate portion 736 (FIG.50) of the circuit board 730 between the first and second covers 740A,740B. In other implementations, the covers 740A, 740B, 750 can be formedas a single piece. In still other implementations, the circuit board 730can be separated into multiple pieces.

FIG. 56 illustrates an example first adapter block 710A, an examplesecond adapter block 710B, and an example joining member 720. A top ofeach adapter block 710A, 710B defines apertures 715 at which contactassemblies 160 can be mounted. Each aperture 715 aligns with one of theports 712. In some implementations, a contact assembly 160 is disposedat each port 712. In other implementations, a contact assembly 160 canbe disposed at alternate ports 712 and/or at the ports 712 on only thefront or rear of the adapter block arrangement 710. The second surface732 of the circuit board 730 includes contact pads that align with thecontact assemblies 160 for electrical communication therewith.

Referring to FIGS. 51-55, the cover arrangement 740 is configured tolatch to the adapter block arrangement 710. For example, in someimplementations, the adapter block arrangement 710 can include latcharms 761 (FIGS. 51 and 56) that extend upwardly from a top of theadapter blocks 710A, 710B. The latch arms 761 include latch hooks 762that extend outwardly from the latch arms 761 (FIGS. 51 and 56). In theexample shown, a latch arm 761 extends upwardly at each port 712 of theadapter block 710 arrangement. In other implementations, a greater orfewer number of latch arms 761 may extend upwardly from the adapterblock arrangement 710.

The cover 740 that is configured to receive the latch arms 761 to securethe cover 740 to the adapter block arrangement 710. The cover 740 alsodefines through-openings 747 that extend through the cover 740. Eachthrough-opening 747 includes a first portion and a second portion. Thefirst portion is sized to enable the latch hook 762 of the latch arm 761to pass therethrough. The second portion is sized to inhibit passage ofthe latch hook 762 therethrough. The cover 740 also defines a platform748 adjacent the second portion of each through-openings 747.

The first cover piece 740A is mounted to the first adapter block 710A bypressing the first cover piece 740A onto the first adapter block 710A(see FIG. 51). The latch arms 761 (including the latch hooks 762) of theblock 710A pass through the first portions of the through-openings 747of the first cover piece 740A (see FIG. 52). The first cover piece 740Ais then slid in a first direction D1 (FIG. 52) so that thethrough-openings 747 move laterally relative to the latch arms 761 untilthe latch hooks 762 are disposed over the platforms 748 (see 740A ofFIG. 53). In certain implementations, the latch arms 761 are deflectedwhen passing through the first portions of the through-openings 747 andreturn to normal positions upon entering the second portions of thethrough-openings 747.

The second cover piece 740B is mounted to the second adapter block 710Busing the same process, but sliding the second cover piece 740B in asecond direction D2 that is opposite the first direction D1 (see FIG.54). The intermediate cover 750 is positioned over the circuit board 730between the first and second cover pieces 740A, 740B (FIG. 55). Theintermediate cover 750 inhibits movement of the cover pieces 740A, 740Bthat would otherwise align the latch arms 761 with the through-openings748. Accordingly, the intermediate cover 750 inhibits removal of thecover pieces 740A, 740B from the adapter block arrangement 710.

In the example shown, the intermediate cover 750 includes a body 751defining latching slots 752 that align with latch arms 722 on thejoining member 720. The latch arms 722 snap into the latching slots 752when the intermediate cover 750 is positioned over the intermediateportion 736 of the circuit board, which seats on the joining member 720.In other implementations, the intermediate cover 750 can otherwise becoupled to the adapter block 710.

In some implementations, the adapter block assembly 700 is configured tobe coupled to a tray (e.g., tray 250 of FIGS. 19-20), or other suchstructure. In certain implementations, each adapter block assembly 700includes an engagement member 717 that extends outwardly from at leastone side 705, 706 of the adapter block 710 (FIG. 48). In the exampleshown, an engagement member 717 extends outwardly from both sides 705,706 of the adapter block 710. In certain implementations, the engagementmember 717 has an H-shaped profile when viewed from the side 705, 706the adapter block arrangement 710. For example, the engagement member717 can have a two L-shaped flanges extending outwardly from the side705, 706 of the adapter block 710; a shelf extending between theflanges, and a ramp or tapered section extending inwardly from the shelftowards the side 705, 706.

In certain implementations, the joining member 720 includes latchfingers 725 configured to latch to the engagement members 717 of adapterblocks 710. For example, a joining member 720 may have a first latchfinger that hooks to the engagement member at a first side 705 of afirst adapter block 710A and a second latch finger 725 that hooks to theengagement member 717 at a second side 706 of a second adapter block710B. In certain examples, the joining member 720 couples the adapterblocks 710A, 710B together so that front ports 712 of the adapter blocks710A, 710B extend along a common plane.

The above specification, examples and data provide a completedescription of the manufacture and use of the composition of theinvention. Since many embodiments of the invention can be made withoutdeparting from the spirit and scope of the invention, the inventionresides in the claims hereinafter appended.

What is claimed is:
 1. An optical adapter block assembly comprising: (a)a first adapter block defining a plurality of ports, the first adapterblock defining an aperture for each port of the first adapter block; (b)a second adapter block defining a plurality of ports, the second adapterblock defining an aperture for each port of the second adapter block;(c) a circuit board extending across the apertures of the first andsecond adapter blocks, the circuit board including a plurality ofcontact arrangements, each contact arrangement being disposed at one ofthe apertures of the first and second adapter blocks, the circuit boardalso including a circuit board connector; and (d) a protection memberdisposed between the first adapter block and the second adapter block,the protection member including a shroud into which the circuit boardconnector extends.
 2. The optical adapter block assembly of claim 1,wherein the first adapter block includes a plurality of front ports anda plurality of rear ports that each align with one of the front ports ofthe first adapter block.
 3. The optical adapter block assembly of claim2, wherein the second adapter block includes a plurality of front portsand a plurality of rear ports that each align with one of the frontports of the second adapter block.
 4. The optical adapter block assemblyof claim 1, further comprising a cover coupled to the first adapterblock to hold the circuit board to the first adapter block.
 5. Theoptical adapter block assembly of claim 4, wherein the cover also iscoupled to the second adapter block to hold the circuit board to thesecond adapter block.
 6. The optical adapter block assembly of claim 4,wherein the cover is latched to the first adapter block.
 7. The opticaladapter block assembly of claim 6, wherein latching arms extend upwardlyfrom the first adapter block and latch to shoulders defined by thecover.
 8. The optical adapter block assembly of claim 1, wherein theprotection member couples the first adapter block to the second adapterblock.
 9. The optical adapter block assembly of claim 1, wherein theoptical adapter block assembly extends along a length between a firstend and a second end, and wherein the circuit board extendssubstantially along the length.
 10. The optical adapter block assemblyof claim 9, further comprising a first engagement member at the firstend of the optical adapter block assembly and a second engagement memberat the second end of the optical adapter block assembly.
 11. The opticaladapter block assembly of claim 10, wherein the first engagement memberis integral with the first adapter block and the second engagementmember is integral with the second adapter block.
 12. The opticaladapter block assembly of claim 1, wherein the shroud of the protectionmember is a forward shroud and wherein the protection member also has arearward shroud, wherein the forward shroud receives the circuit boardconnector when the circuit board is positioned on the first adapterblock in a first orientation, and wherein the rearward shroud receivesthe circuit board connector when the circuit board is positioned on thefirst adapter block in a second orientation that is rotated 180° fromthe first orientation.
 13. An optical adapter block assembly comprising:(a) a circuit board extending along a length between a first end and asecond end, the circuit board including a plurality of contactarrangements disposed along the length, the circuit board also includinga circuit board connector; (b) a cover arrangement coupled to a firstside of the circuit board; (c) a plurality of front connection locationsdisposed at a second side of the circuit board, the second side beingopposite the first side; (d) a plurality of rear connection locationsdisposed at the second side of the circuit board, the rear connectionlocations being aligned with the front connection locations alongconnection insertion axes; and (d) a protection member disposed betweentwo of the front connection locations and between two of the rearconnection locations, the protection member including a shroud intowhich the circuit board connector extends.
 14. The optical adapter blockassembly of claim 13, wherein the front connection locations arestaggered from each other.
 15. The optical adapter block assembly ofclaim 14, wherein the front connection locations are staggered in pairs.16. The optical adapter block assembly of claim 13, wherein the opticaladapter block assembly extends along a length between a first end and asecond end, and wherein the circuit board extends substantially alongthe length.
 17. The optical adapter block assembly of claim 16, furthercomprising a first engagement member at the first end of the opticaladapter block assembly and a second engagement member at the second endof the optical adapter block assembly.
 18. The optical adapter blockassembly of claim 13, wherein the front connection locations couple tothe cover to hold the circuit board to the front connection locations.19. The optical adapter block assembly of claim 18, wherein the cover islatched to the front connection locations.
 20. The optical adapter blockassembly of claim 13, wherein the protection member couples to the coverarrangement.